The Ironton Band Boosters are continuing work to provide for city band students, despite a criminal investigation of its treasurer.

Wednesday, February 07, 2001

The Ironton Band Boosters are continuing work to provide for city band students, despite a criminal investigation of its treasurer.

Elizabeth A. Keating, indicted in January for the attempted murder of a co-worker, faces charges because of missing band boosters money, police have said. Mrs. Keating took office as treasurer of the organization two years ago.

Boosters president Jeff Massie read a statement as Tuesday night’s meeting started, saying the organization has answered as many questions as it can right now.

"If we were to reveal anything further, it gets into information prosecutor hasn’t presented," Massie said.

"We can say that substantial funds of the corporation appear to have been misappropriated or liens placed against them by unauthorized acts," Massie read.

The officers, trustees, police and Lawrence County Prosecutor J.B. Collier Jr.’s office have spent considerable time investigating, especially financial records from at least three banks.

The prosecutor is prepared to present evidence to the grand jury in about a week, Massie read.

The organization has also hired attorney Richard Bentley.

About 22 band boosters members gathered for Tuesday’s meeting, which centered on upcoming fund-raisers.

Members said they were upset about the current events but are still focused on their goal – to make sure the band and flag corps students have what they need.

It’s important the community knows the group is still there for Ironton, Massie said.

"We’re always working, full steam," he said. "The membership is still strong and committed to these kids."

Band boosters will continue meetings; will still be at the games; will keep raising the needed dollars the students need for uniforms and other items, he added.

"We want our kids to look the best."

Already in the works are a raffle ticket sale, a chili supper, a dance competition in March for majorettes and the flag corps, and other events. The group also discussed raising funds through candle sales.